The American Eskimo Dog Breed
Own an Intelligent, Lovable, Spirited Eskie Companion as a Pet
Mar 14, 2008
Eskie History
The American Eskimo Dog is a member of the Spitz family of dogs, and known as a Nordic breed. Nicknamed as "Eskies", they are said to have descended from the white German Spitz, and other spitz breeds such as Keeshond and Pomeranian.
Until 1917, the American Eskimo was known as the “American Spitz.” Oddly, the American Eskimo does not have any established connection to North American Eskimo culture, other than its belonging to the Nordic breed. In the early 1900s, the American Eskimo was known for being a circus dog, as its agility and quickness suit it well for tricks and performances.
The American Eskimo resembles a small Samoyed or white Keeshond or Pomeranian. Yet, the dogs exhibit such distinctive breed standards that they are now recognized as a completely separate breed. The American Eskimo dog breed was first recognized as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1995.
AKC Breed Standards
The American Eskimo Dog belongs to the AKC’s Non-Sporting Group. There are three sizes of the breed: Toy, Miniature and Standard. According to the AKC, the American Eskimo Dog breed standards include:
- White or white with biscuit cream
- Thick, double, standoff coat, never to be trimmed
- Slightly oval dark or medium brown eyes
- Black points, consisting of dark lips, eye rims and nose leather
- A plumed, curled tail, usually lying on the back
- Trots, with a smooth gait
- Not shy or aggressive; known as a watchdog
Dogs are disqualified for measuring less than nine inches or greater than 19 inches tall, for blue eyes, or pink pigment points. Temperament problems can also cause disqualification.
American Eskimos as Pets
Eskies are intelligent, attentive, energetic, loving dogs. Most American Eskimos require human companionship and attention. They learn quickly, but also become bored easily. Stimulation through play or chew toys helps keep the dog’s attention focused.
Room for exercise is important. Although Eskies can live in apartments or homes with no yards, daily walks are needed. American Eskimos enjoy walks, playing and time with other dogs. Eskies love the water, learning to swim, if introduced to the water at an early age.
As stated earlier, Eskies are known for being watchdogs, alerting owners to strange noises and visitors. American Eskimos are sensitive to actions and emotions. If not properly socialized or mistreated, these dogs can become aggressive. Make sure to watch for aggressive behavior. Otherwise, American Eskimos are great with people of any age and other dogs.
When American Eskimo owners meet, they are sometimes surprised to find how similar their dogs are. Owners correlate stories about the dogs not learning (or choosing) to fetch but rather playing alone or playing keep away, or the dogs being notorious for alerting the owners of visitors or the postal delivery. They also connect with stories of love, as the American Eskimo can look deep into the soul, feeling sadness or happiness, reflecting an owner’s mood.
References:
The American Kennel Club
The United Kennel Club
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